In the 1940s, our World War II troops fought to save the world from tyranny.
Thankfully, they succeeded.
The United States and our Allies defeated the Axis powers of Germany, Italy and Japan.
More than 400,000 Americansgave their livesin the fight.
Those who survived returned home to resume their family lives and help build this great countrys prosperity.
If you have feedback or a story idea then pleasecontact us here.
The freedom we enjoy today is thanks to their bravery and valor.
They taught us the true meaning of patriotism, and we remain forever grateful for their sacrifices.
We are about to mark the 78th anniversary ofV-J Day, the effective end of World War II.
Of the 16 million Americans who served in that conflict, just 167,000 were alive by last year.
By next year, fewer than 60,000 of these brave veterans are expected to still be with us.
Our young people must understand the cost of the freedom they enjoy.
I have great respect for our veterans.
My grandfather Daniel served in the U.S. Army in France during World War I.
His older brother, Jack Sinise, was a navigator on B-17 bombers.
In 2009, my friend Tom Hanks made me aware of the National WWII Museum in New Orleans.
Uncle Jack made me realize that every veteran of WWII is a living library.
He was a great inspiration for me, and I will never forget his stories.
His story went into the museum archives.
In 2017, we expanded the program by inviting high school students to join the experience.
This educational opportunity gives young people the incredible honor of learning about WWII directly from those who lived it.
